Getting Over Trauma

Crucial tips on getting over trauma It is an unfortunate fact that traumatic experiences are a part of life. What's even more difficult about these events is how tough they are to overcome — physically, emotionally and, often times, practically — so that life may continue with some semblance of normality. The good news is that once trauma is overcome, studies show that you can be left with a feeling of increased strength at having come through a tough spot.

Whether the trauma you face is the death of a loved one, an unexpected and frightening experience or an unexpected and life-changing event, it can be tough to get your affairs back in order. Read on for some ideas of how to begin your recovery.

Give yourself time

Take the issue head-on and deal with what’s really bothering you. Realize exactly what happened — in detail — and then cope with the event how you see fit.

Although returning to a “normal” life and routine is important to the recovery process, this must happen in due time. Burying yourself in work or other responsibilities will only lead to pent up emotions and, in the end, more stress overall. This could very well lead to more downtime in the end, as you struggle to remember and deal with past causes of stress.

Instead, take some time to rest and think. Write in a journal or visit some old friends — keeping your mind alert and occupied is a good way to stop yourself from wallowing in bad feelings for too long. Be sure that you’ve fully recognized and understood your feelings and mental state before diving back into the full swing of things. That way, when you do return to work and your daily routine, you’re far more equipped to do so, and you’ll be better able to concentrate and thrive.

Rely on your support systems

Friends and family can be your most important resources in a time of trouble. Whether you talk to them about your feelings or just spend some time with them to know they’re there, loved ones can be an invaluable source of comfort. Although most of us have learned in time to regulate our own emotions, studies show that trauma confuses our ability to do this, so that relationships with others are integral to our recognition and control of fear and stress emotions.

Don’t feel silly if you find you’re more in need of people than usual. Give yourself the pleasure of others' company and allow them to give you comfort and support. Although nobody doubts your abilities, you’d be surprised what your mom still has to offer you, emotionally and mentally.

Talk about it

Studies on post-traumatic stress disorder show that it’s integral for sufferers of trauma to talk about what they’ve endured, and how they feel about it. In fact, mental health professionals go to great lengths to establish trust and comfort so that stressed individuals can talk it out, because it’s so important to the healing process.

While this may seem like a wonderful idea, it's not as easy as it sounds. For some, vocalizing the event solidifies it's truth and makes it that much harder to talk about. For this reason, it’s important that you find somebody that you trust enough to reveal things that are painful for you. Talk with people who’ve been through the same ordeal or just people you feel comfortable with, such as siblings or close family members. Get involved with a support group or friends. Just let your thoughts on the subject out — speaking to others can help you realize fully what you’re dealing with, and allow you to get the appropriate help needed for your situation.